About Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that supports cerebrospinal fluid flow, balances the nervous system, and helps the body heal.
Serving babies, children, and adults in Midtown Manhattan
Sessions are quiet, unhurried, and tailored to your goals.
What is craniosacral therapy?
Craniosacral therapy focuses on the craniosacral system, the membranes and fluid around the brain and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced by the choroid plexus and circulates through the head and spine to protect and nourish the central and autonomic nervous systems.
- The brain generates rhythmic impulses that move CSF through craniosacral pathways.
- Therapists palpate the cranial sacral rhythm (CSR) much like a pulse to assess health.
- Changes in rhythm can reflect restrictions that affect nerves, muscles, and organs.
The craniosacral cycle, step by step
The craniosacral cycle describes how cerebrospinal fluid is created, circulated, and expressed through the body. Therapists track the SQAR (symmetry, quality, amplitude, and rate) of this rhythm to guide care.
What happens in the system
- Creation of CSF: Fluid is produced in the choroid plexus and contained by cranial membranes.
- Hydraulic rhythm: Subtle brain impulses move CSF through cranial and spinal pathways.
- Whole-body influence: Healthy flow supports nerves, organs, posture, and recovery.
- Therapeutic intention: Gentle contact helps release restrictions and restore balance.
Why people seek craniosacral therapy
Precise, gentle hand placements invite the body to release tension, alleviate pain, and reconnect the mind and body. When the CSR is compromised, restrictions in CSF flow can influence how well you recover from stress, injury, or illness.
- Supports a calmer baseline and improved sleep quality.
- Encourages clearer breathing and reduced neck or jaw tension.
- Helps the body shift out of fight-or-flight patterns.
Cranial Osteopathy was identified by Dr. William Sutherland and later defined as Craniosacral Therapy by Dr. John Upledger, a lineage continued by Dr. Alex Kaminsky.
- Head, jaw, and neck pain, including TMJ discomfort.
- Stress recovery, vagus nerve support, and sleep challenges.
- Pediatrics: latch issues, colic, torticollis, and birth strain.
- Post-surgical or concussion aftercare.
- Whole-body balance and emotional regulation.
What happens in the room
The practitioner places gentle hands on specific areas, including the head and sacrum, to evaluate rhythm and release restrictions. The work is quiet and non-invasive, and many patients feel deeply relaxed during and after sessions.
- Subtle mobilization encourages change in soft tissue and joints.
- Assessment focuses on areas of held tension and asymmetry.
- Home care tips may be offered to reinforce progress.
- Conversation: Review history, goals, and changes.
- Assessment: Palpate rhythm along head, spine, and sacrum.
- Hands-on work: Gentle contact invites release.
- Integration: Stillness and guidance for aftercare.
Dr. Alex Kaminsky
Advanced Certified Craniosacral Therapist with extensive experience treating individuals of all ages, including newborns. Dr. Kaminsky blends craniosacral therapy with related disciplines to support your goals.
- Decades of clinical experience in craniosacral therapy and gentle manual techniques.
- Care plans that respect your pace, comfort level, and medical history.
- Quiet Midtown office with time protected for unhurried sessions.
- How light is the touch? Typically no more than the weight of a nickel.
- Is this safe for babies? Yes, the work is gentle and adapted for infants.
- Does it replace medical care? No, it complements medical treatment.
Ready for a quieter nervous system?
Reach out to discuss availability and whether craniosacral therapy is a good fit for your goals.